sedimentary
Bumble Bee Jasper
Calcite and Volcanic Ash Mixture
Hardness: 3-4 (Mohs scale); Color: Yellow, orange, black, and white banded patterns; Luster: Waxy to dull; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (Calcite-based); Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.8
- Hardness
- 3-4 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Yellow, orange, black, and white banded patterns
- Luster
- Waxy to dull
Identified More sedimentary →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 3-4 (Mohs scale); Color: Yellow, orange, black, and white banded patterns; Luster: Waxy to dull; Crystal Structure: Trigonal (Calcite-based); Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.8
Formation & geological history
Formed in volcanic fumaroles where volcanic ash, sulfur, and carbonate minerals seeped into cracks. Most deposits are localized and relatively young in geological terms.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for lapidary work, jewelry (cabochons), and as a collector's specimen due to its striking patterns.
Geological facts
Despite its name, it is technically an Indonesian carbonite rock, not a true jasper. It contains significant amounts of sulfur (yellow) and arsenic (orpiment), so it requires careful handling.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinct 'bumble bee' banding and proximity to volcanic vents. It is almost exclusively found at Mount Papandayan in West Java, Indonesia.
More like this
Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite (primarily SiO2)
sedimentary
Chert Breccia
Brecciated Chert (Microcrystalline Silica)
sedimentary
Sandstone Grain
Clastic Sedimentary Rock Grain (SiO2 dominated)
sedimentary
Shale or Slaty Mudstone
Argillaceous sedimentary rock
sedimentary
Sandstone
Arenite
sedimentary